Barchetta 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Barchetta 27 is defined by its responsiveness and early planing threshold. With a displacement-to-length ratio that places it firmly in the ultra-light displacement boat (ULDB) category, it behaves more like a high-performance dinghy than a traditional keelboat. The hull design incorporates a "stern reflex" near the transom, a signature Henderson trait intended to generate lift and reduce drag at high speeds. Under sail, the boat is exceptionally stiff for its weight, largely due to its deep-draft lifting keel tipped with a heavy lead bulb.

Handling is sharp and demanding; the boat utilizes a retractable carbon-fiber bowsprit to fly large asymmetric spinnakers, which allows it to reach double-digit speeds in moderate breezes. According to editorial coverage in Sailing World, the boat’s ability to plane is a core part of its identity, making it a favorite for point-to-point distance racing and windward-leeward courses alike. The sail-area-to-displacement ratio is aggressive, requiring an active crew to manage the power, particularly in gusty conditions where the boat’s light weight makes it sensitive to trim adjustments.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the Barchetta 27 includes a cabin, the interior is decidedly minimalist, reflecting its primary mission as a race-oriented sportboat. The overhead clearance is limited, as the low-profile coachroof is designed to minimize windage and keep the center of gravity low. The layout typically features a V-berth forward and two short settees in the main cabin area.

Materials are utilitarian, often featuring white gelcoat surfaces and lightweight marine-grade fabrics to save weight. There is space for a portable head and a basic navigation station, but the boat lacks the full galley or enclosed head found on cruiser-racers of similar length. Sibling variations are rare, as the Barchetta 27 was a niche production run; however, some hulls were outfitted with differing spar packages, including high-modulus carbon masts for those seeking the ultimate in rig stiffness and weight reduction.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Barchetta 27 gained significant industry recognition shortly after its debut, most notably being named a "Boat of the Year" finalist by Sailing World in 2002. It was praised for its innovative use of a lifting keel and its accessibility for owners who wanted Henderson 30-like performance in a more manageable and affordable 27-foot package. While it does not have an extensive footprint in mainstream media, it remains a "cult classic" in the sportboat community, often mentioned in technical discussions regarding Glenn Henderson’s design evolution.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Barchetta 27 should focus their inspection on the specialized mechanical components that define the model's performance:

• Lifting Keel Mechanism: The keel is raised and lowered via a winch system. Buyers should inspect the stainless steel cables for fraying and the trunk for any signs of "keel slap" or structural stress fractures where the keel loads meet the hull.
• Carbon Fiber Spars: If the vessel is equipped with the original carbon mast, a professional rigging survey is essential. UV degradation or compression cracks near the spreaders and hounds can be costly to remediate.
• Deck Hardware Bedding: Given the high loads generated by the asymmetric spinnaker and the powerful rig, deck hardware—especially the bowsprit housing and primary winches—should be checked for moisture ingress in the core.
• Rudder Bearings: The high speeds achieved by this model put significant strain on the rudder assembly. Excessive play in the helm often points to worn bushings or bearings that require replacement to maintain the boat's signature "surgical" feel.

Community & Resources

Support for the Barchetta 27 is primarily found through the broader community of Glenn Henderson design enthusiasts. While no dedicated single-model class association currently maintains an active website, technical data and owner experiences are frequently shared through the Henderson Design section of various high-performance sailing forums. Owners also frequently collaborate with sailmakers who specialize in sportboat inventories to optimize the boat's rating for PHRF or ORC racing.

The Verdict

The Barchetta 27 is a specialized instrument for the performance-minded sailor, offering a level of exhilaration that few 27-footers can match.

Pros:

• Exceptional planing performance and off-wind speed.
• Truly trailerable thanks to the lifting keel and 8'6" beam.
• High-quality design pedigree from Glenn Henderson.
• Competitive in modern PHRF sportboat divisions.

Cons:

• Minimalist interior offers very little comfort for overnighting.
• Demanding to sail at its full potential, requiring an experienced crew.
• Limited production numbers make finding parts and sistership support difficult.
• Technical components (carbon mast/lifting keel) require rigorous maintenance.